Turkey’s Role as a Terrorism Sponsor: Insights from Michael Rubin

Michael Rubin discusses Turkey’s support for terrorism in Kashmir and its implications for India. The interview examines the complexities of Turkey’s relationship with the PKK and Pakistan, suggesting that India should strategically support the Kurdish movement as a counteraction. Rubin also highlights a shift in Western perceptions of Turkey, especially in U.S. Congress, as support for Turkey wanes amid increasing concerns over its terrorist affiliations.

In an interview with IANS, Michael Rubin, a Middle East expert from the American Enterprise Institute, examines Turkey’s evolving geopolitical role, notably its support for Kashmiri terrorists and its partnership with Pakistan. Given Turkey’s complex history with the PKK and Abdullah Ocalan’s recent statements, Rubin questions the implications for regional security, especially concerning India’s strategic interests.

Rubin argues that Abdullah Ocalan has lost direct control over the PKK due to his long imprisonment and ongoing isolation. While Ocalan’s recent call for disarmament might seem impactful, PKK leaders show hesitance, citing external pressures and ongoing conflict with Turkey. The PKK has a history of cynical responses to ceasefires, making it unlikely to take Ocalan’s requests seriously without significant changes from the Turkish government.

The interview presents Turkey’s relations with Pakistan as a potential threat to India, and Rubin posits that India should diplomatically counter this by supporting Kurdish movements. He describes Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as an ideologue who insists on Muslim rule everywhere, indicating that strengthening ties with the Kurds could avert Turkey’s aggressive stances in Kashmir.

Furthermore, Rubin emphasizes that India must adapt its diplomatic strategies to address threats posed by Turkey. By no longer being the passive player, India can respond more robustly to Turkish support for terrorism. Historical parallels of Turkey’s political maneuvers and Erdogan’s deeply-rooted beliefs in Islamist ideologies illustrate the need for India to recalibrate its foreign policy.

Rubin comments on the uncertain Western perspective regarding Turkey, particularly concerning U.S. and European responses. He notes a significant shift in Congress, where support for Turkey has waned, with increasing scrutiny over its actions as a state sponsor of terrorism. As a result, bipartisan consensus is growing in Washington that may influence future U.S. dealings with Turkey, particularly in light of Erdogan’s controversial policies.

Michael Rubin’s insights underscore the significant challenges posed by Turkey’s geopolitical maneuvers and its support for terrorism, particularly in Kashmir. He advocates for India’s strategic response through Kurdish support and recognizes the changing dynamics in U.S.-Turkey relations, which may affect Turkey’s standing on the global stage. The conversation calls for a reassessment of India’s diplomatic strategies in light of Turkey’s aggressive actions and ideologies.

Original Source: www.thehansindia.com